Expert-Guided Offshore Fishing in Long Island, NY

Big Game Fishing Off Long Island's Coast

Ready for some serious offshore action? Captain John Raguso's private charters out of Long Island are the real deal for anglers looking to tangle with some of the Atlantic's most prized gamefish. We're talking hefty bluefin tuna, acrobatic mahi mahi, and the chance at a billfish battle with white marlin. This full-day trip is perfect for small groups wanting to get away from the crowds and focus on quality fishing time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time chasing pelagics, the captain's got you covered with top-notch gear and local know-how to put you on the fish.

A Day on the Big Blue

Your offshore adventure kicks off early, as we'll want to maximize our time where the big ones roam. We'll cruise past the horizon, leaving Long Island's beaches in our wake as we head for the productive fishing grounds. The Gulf Stream's influence creates a perfect habitat for baitfish, which in turn attracts the predators we're after. Expect a mix of trolling and possibly some live baiting or chunking, depending on what's working best. The beauty of a private charter is the flexibility - we can switch tactics on the fly to give you the best shot at hooking up. With a 9-hour trip, we've got time to really work an area if the bite is on, or run-and-gun to find active fish. And don't worry about bringing gear - the boat's rigged with everything you need, from sturdy stand-up rods to specialized lures that these offshore bruisers can't resist.

Offshore Tactics and Teamwork

Fishing the bluewater is a whole different ballgame from inshore angling. We'll likely start by setting out a spread of trolling lures - colorful skirts trailing behind the boat that mimic fleeing baitfish. It's a team effort out here; while one person's on the rod, others can help clear lines or even grab the gaff when it's time to bring a fish aboard. The captain will be on the hunt for promising signs like temperature breaks, weedlines, or bird activity that could signal feeding fish below. When we mark fish on the sounder or spot surface activity, we might switch to live bait tactics. Watching a frisky live bait get crushed by a tuna is something you won't forget! For the mahi mahi, we might slow-troll near floating debris or weedlines where these acrobatic fighters love to hang out. The variety keeps things interesting, and you'll pick up new skills as we adapt to what the ocean's giving us that day.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Bluefin Tuna: These powerhouses are the heavyweight champs of the North Atlantic. Bluefin can tip the scales at over 500 pounds, though the ones we typically encounter range from 30 to 200 pounds - still more than enough to test your arms and our gear! They're known for blistering runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Bluefin are most abundant in our waters from late spring through fall, with peak action often in the dog days of summer. The fight of a lifetime and some of the best eating in the ocean - that's why anglers can't get enough of bluefin.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, these are the acrobats of the offshore world. Mahi are famous for their electric blue and yellow colors that seem to glow in the water. They're incredibly strong for their size, and love to jump and tailwalk across the surface when hooked. We find them around floating sargassum weed or debris, often in good numbers. Mahi range from 5 to 30 pounds typically, with bigger "slammers" possible. They're great eating and put on one heck of a show - perfect for anglers of all skill levels.

Yellowfin Tuna: Sleek, torpedo-shaped speedsters that often travel in schools. Yellowfin are prized for their fight and flavor. They can range from 30 to well over 100 pounds, with bigger specimens possible. Known for long, fast runs and deep dives, hooking into a school of yellowfin can lead to non-stop action. We target them similar to bluefin, often finding them mixed in together or around the same offshore structure.

White Marlin: The holy grail for many offshore anglers. White marlin are among the most acrobatic of the billfish family, known for spectacular aerial displays when hooked. They average 50 to 80 pounds but fight well above their weight class. Catching one is often a team effort - from spotting the bite to the careful release. While not as common as tuna or mahi, the chance at a white marlin keeps us on our toes and ready for anything the blue water might offer up.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about pushing off from the dock, watching the coastline fade away, and knowing you're heading into some of the most productive fishing grounds on the East Coast. Each trip is different - that's the beauty of offshore fishing. One day you might be in the middle of a tuna blitz, the next you could be sight-casting to a floating log covered in mahi mahi. The private charter setup means we can cater the day to your group's preferences and skill level. Newbies will get patient instruction, while experienced anglers can dive right into the action. And let's be honest - there's nothing quite like the feeling when that reel starts screaming and you know you're connected to something big. Whether it's your first offshore trip or your fiftieth, that rush never gets old.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to test your skills against some of the ocean's top gamefish, Captain John's offshore charters are your ticket to the action. With room for up to three adults (or two adults and two kids for a family adventure), it's perfect for a group of friends or a more personalized experience than you'd get on a larger party boat. Remember, these trips are in high demand, especially during peak season. So if you've got a specific date in mind, don't wait to lock it in. Whether you're dreaming of your first bluefin, want to fill the cooler with tasty mahi, or just want to experience the thrill of bluewater fishing, we've got you covered. Get in touch, and let's start planning your offshore adventure - the big ones are waiting!